‘‘The latest Victorian Building Authority figures show sustained growth in domestic building activity for the Mitchell Shire,’’ Ms Digby said.

The shire is on track to record its highest domestic building permit figures (value and number issued) in five (financial) years.

A domestic building permit is issued primarily for new or rebuilt detached houses, private garages, carports and sheds, or swimming pools and fences.

Meanwhile, Victorians remain committed renovators, investing more than $60million in their homes during the first quarter of 2017.

Building permit data from the VBA shows a 16 per cent rise in the value of applications for alterations and extensions.

The growth in the value of building work covers the first three months of the year compared with the same time last year.

Continued confidence in property improvement appears to be due to several factors including the high cost of moving, home improvement television programs and rising property values.

‘‘Home owners wishing to improve their property should always engage registered builders and plumbers to do the work,’’ Ms Digby said.

‘‘Building can be a stressful process so hiring registered tradespeople who will perform work that is compliant with building regulations is a good start towards improving the value of your home and investment.’’

The VBA lists all registered builders and plumbers on the Find A Practitioner link on its website: www.vba.vic.gov.au